Mercedes A45 AMG Made Official with 360 hp

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After just photos were revealed yesterday, Mercedes-Benz released official information on its newest high-performance AMG model, the A45 AMG.

Based on the same front-wheel drive architecture as its A-Class sibling, the A45 AMG uses the world’s most powerful production turbo-four cylinder engine to churn out 360 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque, routed through the brand’s 4Matic all-wheel drive setup. Sprinting to 62 mph will take the little AMG just 4.6 seconds, all while achieving a projected 34 mpg – on the European test cycle – thanks to light-weight materials and technology like the car’s stop/start function. A seven-speed dual clutch transmission puts the power through to the wheels.

AMG’s “twin blade” radiator grille, a rear apron with matte titanium inserts, a rear diffuser and side sill panels all lend a more athletic look. Red brake calipers and twin-spoke light-alloy wheels finished in either titanium grey or in matte black also spiff up the wheel wells. Inside, the A45 uses a black and red theme, getting black seats with red stitching, carbon-fiber looking dashboard trim, red air vents along with red seatbelts and door sill panels.

The A45 gets three driving modes, ESP On, ESP Sport Handling and ESP Off. ESP Sport Handling mode will let the car’s all-wheel drive system route more power to the rear wheels, and also turns on the A45’s “Curve Dynamic Assist,” which applies the brakes very lightly on the inside wheel during cornering to improve tight corner handling.

For buyers who want something a little more rare than the A45 AMG already will be, Mercedes offers the A45 “Edition 1.” This special package adds distinct looks thanks to a cirrus white paint finish matched with AMG sports stripes in matt graphite grey on the hood, roof and sides. The radiator grille, mirrors and rear wing get red accents, while the wheels are matte black with red calipers underneath.

Inside, the black and red theme is distinguished further with black leather wrapped dash and steering wheel finished with red stitching, along with “Edition 1″ badging.

The A45 AMG will debut during the upcoming Geneva Motor Show in March but won’t reach North America — at least not as a hatchback. Americans will have access to its mechanical sibling: the CLA45 AMG.